Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Combine softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a mixing bowl and cream until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then pour in the vanilla extract and mix until smooth.

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt, then gradually add to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.

Gently fold in the chocolate chips or other desired add-ins.

Scoop rounded balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches of space between each ball.

Bake for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden along the edges and soft in the center.

Cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.